Appetizers for your next Positively Perfect Party!

Appetizers are an essential part of any party. Even if it's just a little unannounced get together with some friends - what you serve still says a lot about who you are and how you feel about your guests.

I can still drop by my mom's house unannounced and she seems to always produce the most fabulous tidbits to munch on.

If you have friends and neighbors who drop by either once in while or even frequently, there are just a few things you can keep on hand and be able to whip up something delicious in a hurry.

This is a bare minimum list, but you can still do a lot with it.

• Tortillas

• Crackers

• Salsa and Chips

• Mixed nuts

• Ketchup, mustard, mayonaise

• Ranch Dressing

• Salt, pepper, garlic powder

• Olive oil

• Cheddar, jack, mozzarella cheeses

• Carrots

• Fruit

• Sour cream

• Cream cheese

• Butter

• pepperoni

You can always put out some chips and salsa.

If you have kids, you'll probably have carrots on hand. Pour some ranch dressing into a small bowl and put in the middle of a plate and surround with carrots.

Something I do a lot is take torillas and add mozzarella cheese and chopped up pepperoni. I bake it for about 10 minutes and then cut into little slices.

Cheese and fruit make a great and elegant appetizer.

And of course you can always set out a dish of mixed nuts.

The first three appetizers listed are from one of our theme parties called Backyard Beach Party .

If you haven't done it already, take a look. You never know, you just might find something interesting you can use at your next party!

Bacon Sticks

Cranberries and Crackers

Chips and Corn Salsa

Hot-Crab-Dip

Bacon-Crescents

Toasted Pecans

Sausage-Toasts

Go to The Party Planning Guide for more recipes and party food ideas,